As the weather warms up and we spend more time outdoors, pets are more likely to escape the house, bolt through an open gate, or wander off during walks or playtime. While collars and tags are helpful, they can fall off or become unreadable—leaving your pet without a way to get home.

That’s where microchipping comes in.

At The Pet Clinic in Salem, we believe microchipping is one of the most effective ways to ensure your pet finds their way back to you if they’re ever lost.

What Is a Microchip and How Does It Work?

A microchip is a tiny device—about the size of a grain of rice—that’s implanted just beneath your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. It contains a unique identification number that can be read by a microchip scanner.

If your pet is ever lost and brought to a veterinary clinic, animal shelter, or rescue group, they’ll be scanned for a chip. When the chip is detected, the ID number is used to pull up your contact information from a secure national registry. This allows the finder to quickly get in touch with you and reunite you with your pet.

Why Microchipping Matters

✔ It’s permanent – Unlike collars or tags, microchips don’t fall off or get lost.
✔ It’s quick and simple – Implanting a chip is fast, safe, and feels like a routine shot.
✔ It increases the chances of return – Microchipped dogs are over twice as likely to be returned to their owners, and microchipped cats are 20 times more likely to be reunited.
✔ It works nationwide – Your pet’s microchip ID is recognized by shelters and clinics across the U.S.

Do Microchips Have GPS?

This is a common question! Microchips do not have GPS tracking capabilities. They work as a permanent form of identification—not a way to track your pet’s location in real time. If you’re looking for GPS, that would be a separate device (usually attached to a collar).

Already Microchipped? Make Sure Your Info Is Up to Date

A microchip only works if the contact information linked to it is current. If you’ve moved, changed phone numbers, or adopted a pet with an existing chip, be sure to:

  1. Look up the microchip registry associated with your pet’s chip (we can help with this if you’re unsure).

  2. Log in or call the company to update your details.

  3. Double-check that your email, phone number, and address are correct.

Need help? Our staff at The Pet Clinic can scan your pet’s microchip and help you verify or update the registration.

Microchipping Is Safe, Affordable, and Lasts a Lifetime

Microchipping is a one-time procedure that provides lifelong peace of mind. It’s safe for dogs and cats of all ages and can be done during a regular exam or spay/neuter procedure.

If your pet hasn’t been microchipped yet—or if you’re unsure whether they already have one—we can help.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Whether you need to get your pet microchipped or want to confirm that your contact information is up to date, we’re here for you.

📅 Call us at (503) 370-9988 to schedule an appointment.
🔎 A few minutes now could save days of worry later.

🐶🐱 Keep your pet safe, protected, and connected—no matter what spring brings.